The one thing everyone needs to study abroad

17May, 2017

Are you considering making education abroad a part of your college journey? No matter where you are in that decision process, getting a passport is an important step to take now.

A passport is more than a legal document — it provides access to the entire world. Whether you’re looking to gain confidence, adaptability, field experience, or knowledge of other cultures, participating in an international program will provide all that and so much more.

Hundreds of opportunities

As a student at CSU, you can study, research, intern, or serve in almost any part of the world via education abroad.

Immerse yourself in a new language and culture. Sail around the world on CSU’s floating campus with Semester at Sea, or learn from CSU faculty at our international outpost in Todos Santos, Mexico. Conduct hands-on research and fieldwork on a wide range of topics in one-of-a-kind environments. Provide meaningful service within an international host community through programs like Alternative Break. As a Ram, the possibilities truly are endless.

Sooner rather than later

Since 2007, U.S. citizens have been required to have a passport to travel anywhere in the world, including Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean. Effective January 2018, Americans from Maine, Minnesota, Missouri, and Montana will also need a passport to travel by air domestically to comply with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s REAL ID Act.

With the increasing demand for U.S. passports in recent years, it is important to plan ahead. The application process usually takes six to eight weeks and can be completed quickly if you plan ahead. Don’t miss out on an international opportunity by getting bogged down with paperwork — complete the process as early as you can.

Your step-by-step guide

There are six steps to getting a passport, and we’ve done the legwork to make the process as smooth as can be. Visit Education Abroad’s “Get a Passport” page to find the step-by-step guide.

You may have questions or concerns as you look through the guide and we’re here to help. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our Education Abroad Peer Advisors. Peer advisors are current students who have recently studied abroad and have been through the passport process before.

Chat with them by email at educationabroad@colostate.edu or give them a call at (970) 491-6342.

Anna is the Communications Manager for International Programs at CSU and a former education abroad participant. She grew up in Fort Collins, and has worked at Colorado State since 2013. Anna loves sharing the stories of #internationalrams and #ramsabroad, and helping every Ram have an international experience – on campus and around the world!